A popular taco restaurant in Folly Beach, South Carolina, has been officially dropped from a wrongful death lawsuit linked to the tragic death of a bride on her wedding night.
Taco Boy, the restaurant in question, was cleared of any legal responsibility in the case filed by Aric Hutchinson, the groom of Samantha Miller, who was killed in a DUI crash in April 2023, just hours after the couple tied the knot.
Tragic Wedding Night Turns Deadly
Aric Hutchinson and Samantha Miller had just gotten married on Folly Beach and were travelling in a golf cart with members of their wedding party when their vehicle was struck by Jamie Komoroski, who was driving under the influence.
Her blood alcohol level was later found to be more than three times the legal limit.
Miller, still wearing her wedding dress, was thrown from the golf cart and died on the spot. Hutchinson and two others were also ejected and seriously injured.
Lawsuit Claimed Komoroski Was Drinking at a Work Event
The lawsuit claimed that Komoroski had been bar-hopping before the crash and was recently employed at Taco Boy. It further alleged that her supervisor organised a work event where alcohol was served heavily, contributing to her intoxication.
The legal complaint argued that Taco Boy and other establishments should be held liable for serving alcohol to an already intoxicated individual.
Restaurant Denied All Involvement
Taco Boy maintained throughout the investigation that Komoroski never visited the restaurant that night, and she had only recently been hired. After Komoroski gave her deposition, it was confirmed she had not been at Taco Boy on the day of the crash.
Following the deposition, Taco Boy was officially dropped from the suit, along with 21 other defendants. The restaurant also stated that neither it nor its insurance companies paid any settlement.
Taco Boy’s Official Statement
In a statement, Karalee Fallert, Co-Founder and CEO of Taco Boy, said:
“We are relieved this matter has been resolved and that the facts have exonerated Taco Boy and our team. Our hearts remain with Aric Hutchinson’s family as they continue to heal from this unimaginable tragedy. This resolution allows us to focus fully on what we do best: serving fresh, delicious tacos in a safe and festive environment.”
Other Businesses Still Held Accountable
While Taco Boy has been cleared, several other businesses on Folly Beach have reportedly reached settlements with Samantha Miller’s estate as part of the larger wrongful death case.
The case serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of drunk driving and the responsibility businesses carry when it comes to serving alcohol.
